Beretta Blog

Response to Gov. O'Malley's signature of SB281 - Your Gun Rights

This morning, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley signed into law SB281, a bill that will severely limit the Constitutionally-protected rights of American citizens in the State of Maryland.

Following the signature of the Bill into law, Beretta has issued the following statement, regarding our company's position regarding the law, and our willingness to remain in the State of Maryland.

You may also wish to read this article, outlining our future plans to remain in a state that has chosen to cripple its citizens' Second Amendment rights.

"The firearm companies owned by Beretta Holding in Maryland—Beretta U.S.A. Corp., Benelli U.S.A. Corporation and Stoeger Industries, Inc.—have all been deeply concerned about Governor Martin O’Malley’s effort this year to impose broad new restrictions on the rights of Maryland citizens to buy firearms, as well as on the types of firearms and firearm magazines they can acquire. The Companies have submitted comments before the Maryland legislature and to the press condemning these efforts and stating that the Governor's anti-gun activity is causing them to evaluate whether they want to remain in this State.

Notwithstanding some media reports to the contrary, those efforts have had some beneficial effects.

Through the Companies’ legislative efforts and with assistance led by Delegate Joe Vallario and others provisions were stripped out of the final Bill that would have required an immediate move of certain operations out of Maryland. The parts of the legislation that remained, though - and that were not deleted notwithstanding the Beretta Holding companies efforts to do so -remain offensive not only to our companies as firearm manufacturers, importers and distributors and as investors in jobs, taxes and income within the State of Maryland, but also to those of us who, as Maryland citizens, will now be encumbered with obstacles to our exercise of our Constitutional rights, such as a requirement we now be fingerprinted like a criminal before we can buy a handgun, without providing a commensurate benefit in reducing crime.

The resulting law that passed is not acceptable, even with the improvements we were able to obtain. In short, the law that finally passed went from being atrocious to simply being bad.

The question now facing the Beretta Holding companies in Maryland is this: What effect will the passage of this law--and the efforts ofMarylandgovernment officials to support its passage--have on our willingness to remain in this State?

In that respect we are mindful of two objectives: We will not let passage of this legislation prevent us from providing on-time delivery of our products to our U.S. Armed Forces and other important customers. We also will not go forward in a way that compounds the insult made to ourMarylandemployees by their Governor and by the legislators who supported his efforts.

Prior to introduction of this legislation the three Beretta Holding companies located inMarylandwere experiencing growth in revenues and jobs and had begun expansion plans in factory and other operations. The idea now of investing additional funds inMarylandand thus rewarding a Government that has insulted our customers and our products is offensive to us so we will take steps to evaluate such investments in other States. At the same time, we will continue our current necessary operations withinMarylandand we are thankful for and welcome the continued support of our employees as we do so."

Comments

Arrest the Governor for Treason and for Infringing on Our Constitution.

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 4:10 PM
by J O S E P H

As a Maryland resident & Military combat veteran I truly hope that you do decide to relocate to a more Firearm Manufacturing friendly state that will allow you to conduct business without limitations.

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 4:27 PM
by Timothy Byrd Sr

Come to northwest Indiana we will welcome you with open arms and are pro gun rights all the way.

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 5:29 PM
by Rick Kentaft

Come to Ohio we will welcome you with open arms. While I myself can not afford your guns there is no shortage of hard working Second Amendment loving Americans here. I salute your company for standing up to these political bullies. Godbless

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 5:35 PM
by Corey Kurth

I suppose that in the future people will ask the question,"Where were you when liberty died in Maryland?"

I'm sure a move across the river to Virginia would provide an ideal environment. You'd probably shorten the commute for most of your employees.

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 7:58 PM
by Doug

As a Marylander, I support Beretta's decision completely. Do not allow our horrible state government to affect your business! I wish we could have helped you stay here and keep Maryland jobs alive but I support your move 100%

Posted @ Thursday, May 16, 2013 9:17 PM
by Anon

"Go Along, Get Along" instead of standing up for the Constitution and teaching these statists that tyranny has consequences. Who will buy all your guns when only the bloody govt goons have them?

I own Beretta products but I am not sure I am willing to purchase any more.

We need to teach these people a lesson, that first and foremost We Are Americans.

That's how I feel and I challenge you to publish this comment...

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 12:17 AM
by NM Patriot

Come to Ohio. We have plenty of good machinists and factory workers displaced by GM. And we also have an abundance of good industrial land. My town even has land in our industrial park for 30,000 an acre.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:28 AM
by Matthew

It would be a long move, but Texas has plenty of land available and great tax incentives. There's also rarely any snow to deal with. Just plenty of lakes, piney woods full of deer and hogs, and three seasons of summer to play in. Don't forget all the BBQ. Come on down!

Wow. Can't believe you are not standing up for the Constitutuon and the Amerian people by not leaving Maryland. You just lost my entire family as customers.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 7:13 AM
by Kurt henning

Enough of the double talk out of Beretta.

The time to talk has passed.

The only thing I want to hear is when they are moving and where.

As a MD resident, I can't wait to escape the liberal utopia.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 7:33 AM
by MarylandShooter

I am extremely disappointed in Beretta. I went to all the hearings where the lead council for Beretta stated that they were "considering" moving out of Maryland.

Looks like Mike Miller (whos campaign you donated hundreds of dollars to) and Martin O'Malley called your bluff and your response is less than impressive.

Congratulations on getting the law changed just enough to benefit Beretta but not for the thousands of Maryland gun owners.

I will not purchase another Beretta product (gun, hat, shirt or otherwise) until you stand up for Maryland gun owners and move out of this state. There are too many other companies that support us.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 8:36 AM
by Clint Jenkins

Beretta, you've lost my respect and my business. Where I come from there's a simple rule - don't say it if you can't follow through. I guess where you come from things work a little different.

You've managed to harm our rights by showing the politicians that in the end all you care about is money. They can rest assured that they can continue ignoring the outcry from the firearms industry because while you'll bluster and puff your chest, in the end you'll back down and take what give you with an outstretched hand.

Hundred's of individuals throughout the state are doing what you won't - voting with their feet and money and leaving to free states. I do hope that your government sales are lucrative, because this will be a black mark on your reputation that will follow you for long years to come.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 9:33 AM
by JD

So, all the threats about leaving MD prior to the bill passing were just that? Empty threats? Very disappointed Beretta. Very disappointed.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 9:34 AM
by Matt

As a firearms instructor, I am disappointed at the lack of resolve Beretta has shown on this issue. As long as Beretta has a presence in Maryland, I will not purchase any Beretta products, nor will I endorse any to my students.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 9:52 AM
by Daniel Choi

Why would I even buy a PICO to go with my Nano.

If anything I will sell my Nano now.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 11:30 AM
by Mindy

Move to Louisiana. We would love to have you, that is if you have the fortitude.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 12:52 PM
by Duke Johnston

Thanks for doing what you can and for providing our Armed Forces with what they need

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:04 PM
by Powers

PLEASE...come to Michigan! We have the workforce. We have plenty of cheap industrial-zoned property and a governor who loves giving tax breaks to new businesses! Our gun laws keep getting better and better; we're an open carry state; no AWB, no magazine capacity restrictions and shall-issue CCW. LOVE to have ya!

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:22 PM
by Stu Chisholm

It is sad to see a company talk big, then get called for their bluff. Your company should have been standing up for the rights of your customers, instead you decided to fall in line like good little boys and girls. I own Beretta products, not only will I be selling the ones I own, I will NEVER purchase another of your products again.

I thought your company out of all of them would make a stand because you are family owned and not publically traded, I guess I was wrong.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:23 PM
by Jim

Come across the line to PA!

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:25 PM
by John

FINALLY!

After 5 months of me asking you FINALLY issue an official corporate response(sort of anyway...). Was it THAT difficult? I really could have used your position as talking points back in Feb,. when I initially asked(and you REFUSED)you for your company's position on MD's(proposed at the time)gun control bill. I wanted to be able to use your position as leverage when I put my position on the record during the hearings. I never got that chance since you refused. I can see by reading all the comments above mine that you've lost a lot of respect and support from former customers as a result. Time to make a decision now Beretta. Hope you make the right one. WE'RE WATCHING....

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:27 PM
by Rick

Please take into consideration those outside of the state who will no longer purchase Beretta firearms if the company does not move. By choosing to remain in a state which imposes restrictions on its citizens directly against the Constitution, the purchase of a Beretta firearm would be a hypocritical thing to do. This is a something Beretta needs to put a great deal of consideration into. There are many states that will welcome Beretta and many American’s who would love to purchase a Beretta firearm…but not while Beretta is still in Maryland.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:37 PM
by Todd Crenshaw

Beretta doesn't bluff, was what was stated previously. No nuances, no ambiguous language, just a forthright message.

But if that were truly the case, there wouldn't be any extensive doublespeak in your response to the new MD legislation.

You asked for the MD government to come correct or lose your revenue. Yes, you certainly need to keep your product available. Yes, you certainly need to fulfill your contracts, but no, you do not need to avoid stating that you will begin immediate efforts to look for relocation opportunities. Heck, you could make the money back in tax deals that a number of free states would be willing to offer you.

Remaining in a slave state after that 'no bluff' statement is tantamount to telling supporters of the 2A that you're really not willing to stand and fight. Which means that those of us who are should only support the companies who will.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 2:42 PM
by Colby Zell

This is your response!? You're treading water, buying time, hoping that we'll forget your threats to leave if the law passed. I'll take my money elsewhere from now on, FN Herstal is at least in the free state of South Carolina.

I love my Beretta products but I do not know if my family will keep even the ones we have.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 3:49 PM
by Andrew

as an NRA certified firearms instructor, gun dealer and Beretta owner, I am disappointed with you, put the push on O'malley and Gansler now, or I will be selling all my personal Berettas

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 5:03 PM
by Ernie Gelwicks

It is disappointing reading that Beretta only values the financial gains from the military contracts to stay in a state that has no respect for you. As I read through your "legal speak", it is indicated that you "will not invest in new in Md.", and that you value your "employees" also. Those are good intentions, by doing so, you still "reward" the corrupt government with needed tax funds to support their anti gun agenda. I hope to read soon, as the current run of M9 is nearing it's finish - of your full move away from a state that clearly despises you.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 5:31 PM
by dale

When Beretta moves its operations, I'll buy that Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon with an English stock. Beautiful gun.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 6:47 PM
by Shane

I guess "Berettas don't bluff" was bullshit. All hot air. Shame on you.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 7:20 PM
by Ed Lindblom

take back Maryland.get out and vote in 2014

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 8:19 PM
by fred brown

Come to Arizona. Great weather and low taxes. Plenty of workers. Legal and illegal.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 11:26 PM
by steve

Dear Sirs, while I admire your commitment to make a difference, in shaping the law, and respect your difficult business decision was heavily weighted with loyalty to and support for the needs of your employees, I can't help but agree with the principle expressed by others here. If you Say it, keep your word. If you aren't keeping the promise, then you have lost that key element of trust, that is so essential to thoughtful buyers of a weapon.

I'll be watching for proof of future investment elsewhere, and timely divestment when possible, in MD, before buying my next handgun from Beretta.

Posted @ Friday, May 17, 2013 11:38 PM
by RLC

These comments are all a bunch of hot air. These Fudds in all probability don't buy Beretta products anyway.

Posted @ Saturday, May 18, 2013 6:37 AM
by Smarty Artie

Pretty diappointing. I can't support bad government, state or otherwise. This 'reconsidering future plans' sounds lame. Coincidentally, though, I'm reconsidering my plans for a pistol caliber carbine and my wife's 20 gauge. No rush, though, since we're waiting for the panic to subside.

Posted @ Saturday, May 18, 2013 9:58 AM
by Bowserb

I commend you for taking some sort of a stand with the Secular Progressives who want to strip our 2A rights in their "Fundamental change" of America to a more Secular Progressive nation. However, as an owner of Beretta weapons, and a very happy owner, I have to tell you straight up, I will not buy weapons, ammo or anything else when possible from a state like Maryland, New York or CT. I urge all patriots to cease buying, anything from a Secular Progressive State, and all companies who do business from these states to move to ones that support your industry.

Not in the future, but today.

We do have power folks. We spend billions of dollars in this industry, and even more on everyday items that I will no longer buy from a Secular Progressive State whenever possible.

Pass it on, and Beretta, please move to a state where I can spend my money with you again.

Thanks in advance. There are many 2A friendly States who would love to have you invest in them, and skilled labor to staff your factories with as well that don't vote to keep Secular Progressives in power.

Posted @ Saturday, May 18, 2013 2:01 PM
by GB

I grew up in Maryland, and remember the days before it became a leftist police state. O'Malley's dispicable assault on the constitutional and natural rights of Marylanders should be a warning to all, as to just what happens when his party takes over a state. It's why Maryland is usually dead last in the catagory of personal freedom in the Liberty Index of the States. Beretta has a business to run, and is somewhat stuck for now. It's a tough situation I face myself. But I'm fed up, and may well have to leave too. And on the day they announce that they are finally able to take business and political refuge in a state that respects the Constitution and natural liberties of the people, by completely leaving The Police State, I will celebrate for them.

Posted @ Saturday, May 18, 2013 3:47 PM
by Bill

Since living in the USA for 35 years I have seen the cancerous loss of the freedoms bestowed by the Founding Fathers. Maryland and the Federal Government seem bent on total control of their citizens. This is their own fault and can only be remedied when replaced by sensible and logical appointees.

Beretta's threatened move was just a drop in the bucket that needs to be accomplished to have any common sense logical people in government passing laws and maintaining those that the Founding Fathers were so sensible in establishing and today are threatened with extinctsion.

Posted @ Saturday, May 18, 2013 7:54 PM
by Mike

I am very disappointed with your company decision to remain in MD. I am currently owners of two Berreta 92 pistols but that is going to change and when I do sell them I will no longer buy any more of your products.

Posted @ Sunday, May 19, 2013 12:16 AM
by Tony A

Democrats are ultimately totalitarian. Move to a free 'red' state.

Posted @ Sunday, May 19, 2013 11:29 AM
by forrest

Please forward your space requirements and we will quickly find you existing buildings or have new ones built. Everything you need is in TEXAS!

I have since sold my PX4 Storm and will no longer be purchasing anything from Beretta. You should be ashamed. Berettas DO INDEED bluff!

Posted @ Friday, July 12, 2013 12:54 PM
by Scott

All firearms, ammunition, firearm accessories manufacturers should move to FREE AMERICA (Texas, Tennessee, etc). Let the libtards of the east coast and left coast explain to their constituents the loss of jobs and tax revenue. In addition, by refusing to sell firearms in those states that have violated the rights afforded to lawful firearms owners, the loss of Robertson-Pittman Act money with cripple their conservation departments. BOYCOTT these states don't hunt, trap or fish there. The loss of revenue from hotels/motels, restaurants and local stores with further impact state budgets. In NYS alone just the loss of license fees and hotel/motel reservations will be in excess of $100 million. It's time to let tyrants like Comrade Cuomo feel the economic and political impact hunters, target shooters, trappers and fisherman can bring to bear. Let's target NYS first, if we're successful it might have a domino effect on places like MD, MA, CT, etc. Every battle begins with a single shot, let this be the first salvo.